India’s first transgender Principal

The first transgender in India has been appointed as the principal of a women’s college.

Manabi Banerjee who was seen in Bigg Boss Bangla hosted by superstar Mithun Chakraborty will head the Krishnagar Women’s College in West Bengal.

According to reports, an official named Dipak K. Kar has informed that Banerjee is expected to start her new job on June 9.

A Times of India report quoted state education minister Partha Chatterjee as saying: “This decision [to appoint Manabi as college principal] was taken by the College Service Commission. I don’t interfere in their decisions. They are aware of our open mind. I am happy with this decision.”

India’s transgender activists have hailed the decision as a proud day for the community that usually faces discrimination and social stigma.

Last year, the Supreme Court of India had declared the transgender community as a legal third gender, granting them minority rights and privileges to education, employment and health benefits.